Master of Science (MS) in General Psychology Degree Program
The Master of Science in General Psychology program focuses on the theoretical and research aspects of psychology for those seeking opportunities in various fields that require a master’s degree, which may include consulting or research. Program graduates may also pursue positions as undergraduate psychology instructors, which typically require an advanced degree in the field. For those who hold a graduate degree in areas other than psychology, this program is designed to provide a firm foundation in psychology necessary to pursue doctoral level study at CalSouthern (PsyD). [This program differs from the CalSouthern Master of Science in Psychology degree, which is designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree and who desire to include a specialization as part of their degree].
This program is not designed to meet the educational requirements for a specific professional license or certification required for employment in an occupation. As such, CalSouthern has made no determination regarding prerequisites for licensure or certification in any state or jurisdiction.
- Credits Required: 30
- Cost Per Credit: $645
- Program Length: 1.5 years (full-time status)1
- Max Transfer Credits: 6 credits2
1Many factors can impact your time to completion such as course loads, course extensions or repetitions, transfer or proficiency credits, and approved leaves of absence. The program length provided does not include these adjustments. Program completion time also depends on an individual student's time needed to complete required practicum courses.
2Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible for transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.
*This information does not apply to the Combined MS program options.
Program Outcomes
Articulate a broad knowledge of psychology’s core foundation content domains (affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social aspects of behavior) and research methods.
Utilize scientific reasoning, processes, and/or methods to synthesize psychological research in a manner that informs counseling and therapy practice.
Apply ethical behavior, standards and decision-making in accordance with the ethical standards of the discipline.
Apply cultural humility and understanding to interactions with diverse individuals and groups.
Integrates psychological research and theory to lay the foundation for successful doctoral study.
Communicate competently in multiple formats (written, oral, and interpersonal) appropriate to various audiences, cultures, and contexts.
Potential career paths may be found in the following industries:
Education (Undergraduate level)
Non-clinical Administration
Social Science Research
CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement.
Master of Science in General Psychology Requirements
| Course Code and Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| PSY 6502 Counseling Theories and Strategies | 3 |
| PSY 8504 Ethical and Professional Issues | 3 |
| PSY 8708 Cultural Diversity | 3 |
| PSY 8509 Lifespan Development | 3 |
| PSY 8506 Advanced Psychopathology | 3 |
| PSY 8802 Professionalization | 1 |
| PSY 7510 Writing in Psychology | 2 |
| PSY 6516 Social Psychology | 3 |
| MFT 6900 Research Methods and Statistics | 3 |
| MFT 6700 Psychopharmacology | 3 |
| PSY 7769 Applications in Psychology: Integrative Research Project (for MSGP degree) or PSY 6509 Systems of Family Therapy (for MSGP degree conferred as part of PsyD-AP or PsyD-CS bridge program) |
3 |
| TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED FOR COMPLETION | 30 |
Courses + Credits
The Master of Science in General Psychology degree is designed for those individuals who would like to explore the field of psychology but hold a graduate degree in other areas of study. This degree program is designed to help students create a foundation in psychology subjects, research, and ethics. Completion of this degree will create a pathway to eligibility to apply to the CalSouthern Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program. Four courses within the MS General Psychology degree plan are eligible for transferable credit into the PsyD; three core courses and one optional elective course.
- PSY 6502Counseling Theories and Strategies – 3 credits
This course focuses on the historical and current evidence-based theories and models of counseling. Emphasis is on the application of these techniques to a variety of clinical situations to improve, restore, or maintain healthy individual, couple and family relationships. It provides an opportunity to analyze case studies through a theoretical lens. Special consideration is given to the development of personal qualities intimately related to the counseling situation including integrity, sensitivity, flexibility, insight, compassion, and personal presence. - PSY 8504Ethical and Professional Issues – 3 credits
This course is designed to familiarize learners with the essential concepts, theories, and applications relevant to ethical issues in psychology. Professional ethical issues are examined in accordance with the most recent code of ethics of the American Psychological Association. Learners can heighten their awareness of ethical issues as they may arise in the practice of psychology and study methods of developing coherent, defensible, reasoned strategies for dealing with such situations. All areas of psychology practice are considered including psychotherapy, assessment, research, teaching, and consultation. The detection, intervention and prevention of child abuse and suicide are addressed. - PSY 8708Cultural Diversity – 3 credits
This course explores a multicultural basis of behavior with an emphasis on social cognition, social interaction processes, and organizational dynamics. The focus of study aims to heighten Learners perception and understanding of effective therapeutic practice, including familiarity with the implications associated with the wide range of racial and ethnic backgrounds, gender issues, age, sexual orientation, and disabilities. This course guides Learners to focus on one's culture of origin to increase awareness of one's own heritage and to increase appreciation of the impact of cultural diversity upon individuals. - PSY 8509Lifespan Development – 3 credits
The purpose of this course is to analyze the nature of human growth and development across the life span. The major theories of development, essential concepts, and issues related to each developmental stage, and implications for wellness and resiliency are addressed. Normal and abnormal development are explored in the context of socio-economic factors, race, ethnicity, culture, gender, and a variety of challenges and traumas. - PSY 8506Advanced Psychopathology – 3 credits
This comprehensive course addresses psychopathology from evolutionary, biological, neurological, psychological, social, socio-cultural, and political perspectives. Focus is on the symptoms, criteria for diagnosis, and possible causes and treatments for various DSM-5-TR mental disorders. The learner will use critical thinking skills while working to gain knowledge of interdisciplinary research from fields ranging from culture to genetics associated with the development of psychopathology. - PSY 8802Professionalization – 1 credit
The Professionalization course is designed to cultivate essential professional skills for students in the psychology programs. Throughout the course, students will delve into ethical principles, communication strategies, and problem-solving techniques that support effective professional practice. With an emphasis on cultural competence, organizational skills, and active listening, the course helps students prepare to navigate complex professional environments with compassion and integrity. Students will have the opportunity to engage in continuous self-reflection and growth through case studies and discussions designed to strengthen their ability to apply ethical principles and professional standards in real-world settings. By the end of the course, students should be equipped to integrate these core values into their professional practice and interact with clients, colleagues, organizations, and communities in a thoughtful, ethical, and effective manner. - PSY 7510Writing in Psychology – 2 credits
This course is designed to help students develop advanced academic writing and research literacy skills necessary for graduate work in psychology. Students critically evaluate psychological research, synthesize scholarly literature, analyze alignment among components of research studies, and construct evidence-based academic arguments. Emphasis is placed on scholarly voice, organization, APA style, and the iterative process of writing and revision. Students also examine the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence in academic work, including verification of AI-generated content, ethical use, authorship, and disclosure requirements. - PSY 6516Social Psychology – 3 credits
This course provides an overview of social psychology. Areas covered include the foundations of social psychology, social beliefs and judgments, group influence, aggression, and social psychology applications. Specifically, the focus of this course is the exploration of how others affect our perception, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This course examines current research, as well as historical, social, and psychological concepts. Learners will work to gain an understanding of how social psychological constructs impact the world. - MFT 6900Research Methods and Statistics – 3 credits
This course covers the essential concepts related to the research process including qualitative and quantitative designs, program evaluation, sampling issues and data analysis. Emphasis is on training Learners to become informed consumers of research and preparing them to conduct research in their respective practices. Learners develop a research proposal consistent with a counseling and family therapy perspective in consideration of multiculturalism, advocacy, leadership, and social justice. Legal and ethical implications of research are explored. - MFT 6700Psychopharmacology – 3 credits
This course covers commonly prescribed psychotropic medications in the field of professional counseling and family therapy. Pharmacological classifications, indications, contraindications, and side effects are addressed in the treatment of adults and children with mental disorders. Focus is on an interdisciplinary approach including referral, coordination of care, and collaboration with medical professionals. Cultural diversity issues and the legal/ethical aspects of pharmacotherapy are considered. - PSY 7769Applications in Psychology: Integrative Research Project (for MSGP degree) – 3 credits
This course focuses on the development of an integrative research project on a topic within the field of psychology. Through comprehensive analysis and synthesis of current research, learners will have the opportunity to apply psychological principles within the area identified. - OR
- PSY 6509Systems of Family Therapy (for MSGP degree conferred as part of PsyD-AP or PsyD-CS bridge program) – 3 credits
This course covers the history and development of family systems therapy. It focuses on the evolving viewpoints, perspectives, values, evidence-based interventions and resiliency models of family counseling. The learner is encouraged to foster personal qualities such as self-awareness, sensitivity, flexibility, insight and compassion in working effectively with families.
Go from a Bachelor’s directly to your Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in one continuous, streamlined pathway.
- One Enrollment, Two Degrees
Earn your Master of Science in General Psychology after completing foundational master’s and doctoral-level coursework, then transition directly into the PsyD-AP or PsyD-CS with no additional application. This continuous pathway is designed to let you build momentum early without a secondary application process. - Streamlined Degree Path
Maximize your time and investment with an efficient credit structure designed to put you on a direct track to a PsyD. - A "Milestone" Resume Boost
Earn your Master of Science in General Psychology credential en route to help build your resume while completing your doctoral journey. - Career Changers Welcome
Our doctoral-aligned foundational courses are designed to bridge knowledge gaps, making this a great rigorous start for those pivoting into psychology.
View the University Catalog for full course descriptions, prerequisite information, and program details.
View CatalogLicensure
United States: CalSouthern has made a determination that this curriculum meets the state educational content requirements for licensure or certification as a psychologist in the following states: CA, CO, DE, HI, NY, OH, TX, WI, WV. Some states may have additional requirements (such as additional courses or clinical training) that are not part of the required curriculum, but which can be satisfied at CalSouthern if the student chooses to do so.
CalSouthern has made a determination that this curriculum does not meet the state educational content requirements for licensure or certification as a psychologist in the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CT, DC, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VA, VT, WA, WY. This program does not accept applications from prospective students who reside in these states unless the student satisfies program attestation requirements.
Other Jurisdictions: This program does not accept applications from prospective students who reside outside of the United States unless the student satisfies program attestation requirements.
Last Update: 6/1/2026
Given that license eligibility varies by jurisdiction and is subject to change, students are advised to contact jurisdictional licensing agencies directly for details regarding all requirements.
Which Psychology Program Works For You?
CalSouthern’s MS & MA Psychology programs at a glance
| Details | Master of Science (MS) in General Psychology | Master of Science (MS) in Psychology | Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credits Required | 30 | 42 | 60 |
| Cost per credit | $645 | $645 | $645 |
| Program length | 1.5 years (full-time status)1 | 2-3 years (full-time status)1 | 4 years (full-time status)1 |
| Max transfer credits | 6 credits2 | 6 credits2 | 12 credits2 |
| Graduates of this program may choose to pursue the following3 |
Doctoral level study at CalSouthern (PsyD) Potential career paths in industries such as:
|
Doctoral level study at CalSouthern (PsyD) Potential career paths in industries such as:
Advancement in career paths such as:
A concentration in:
|
Doctoral level study at CalSouthern (PsyD) Potential career paths in industries such as:
|
1 The program length varies depending on the concentration selected. Many factors can impact your time to completion such as course loads, transfer or proficiency credits, and approved leaves of absence. The program length provided does not include these adjustments. Program completion time also depends on an individual student's time needed to complete required practicum courses.
2Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible for transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies
3CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, licensure, salary, or career advancement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Master of Science in General Psychology program focuses on the theoretical and research aspects of psychology for those seeking opportunities in various fields that require a master’s degree, including consulting or research. Program graduates may also pursue positions as undergraduate psychology instructors, which typically require an advanced degree in the field. For those who hold a graduate degree in areas other than psychology, this program is designed to provide a firm foundation in psychology necessary to pursue doctoral-level study at CalSouthern (PsyD). [This program differs from the CalSouthern Master of Science in Psychology degree, which is designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology or related field and who desire to include a specialization as part of their degree].
In the Master of Science (MS) in General Psychology, you will work to gain knowledge in subjects, such as counseling theories and strategies; lifespan development; psychopathology; culture and diversity considerations; substance use and related disorders; ethics; physiological aspects of psychology; the history and systems of the field; cognition, emotion, and motivation; and will integrate these within the field of psychology.
Classes begin monthly. Connect with a CalSouthern Admissions Advisor by phone (1-800-477- 2254, ext. 47822), by email through Admissions@calsouthern.edu, or request information online at How to Apply – California Southern University (calsouthern.edu). Begin your Master of Science degree in General Psychology at CalSouthern today.
The CalSouthern Master of Science (MS) in General Psychology program requires a total of 30 semester credit hours. The average time to completion is approximately 1.5 years for full-time students. Eligible transfer credit can reduce the completion time. CalSouthern will consider up to 6 semester credit hours of qualifying coursework in transfer with official transcripts.*
*Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.
The Master of Science (MS) in General Psychology degree program at CalSouthern may be the program for you if you would like to further your education beyond your bachelor’s degree and if you are interested in applying an understanding of psychology principles to a vast array of other fields. Completion of this degree will also create a pathway to eligibility to apply to the CalSouthern Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program. Four courses within the MS General Psychology degree plan will be eligible for transferrable credit into the PsyD at CalSouthern.
This degree does not lead to licensure, but earning the Master of Science in General Psychology can fulfill eligibility for doctoral-level study at CalSouthern if desired. Contact an Admissions Advisor today!
If you enroll directly in our PsyD in Applied Psychology (Combined MS) or PsyD: Clinical Specialization (Combined MS) pathway, no. You apply just once with your bachelor's degree. After completing the first 30 credits, you are awarded your Master of Science in General Psychology and automatically continue into your doctoral coursework. If you choose to enroll only in the standalone Master of Science in General Psychology degree program, you will need to formally apply to the PsyD-AP or PsyD-CS later, though you will still be able to transfer up to 12 credits (4 courses) toward your doctorate.
Yes! We welcome applicants with undergraduate degrees in any discipline. Our combined pathways are designed so that the initial 30 credits of coursework provide a comprehensive, rigorous foundation in psychological theory, research, and ethics. This integrated structure is designed so that all students, regardless of their undergraduate major, possess the advanced academic preparation required for the doctoral-level coursework that follows.
The PsyD-CS curriculum provides the foundational training and flexibility needed to pursue licensure for individuals who reside in select states. Given that license eligibility varies by jurisdiction and is subject to change, students are advised to contact jurisdictional licensing agencies directly for details regarding all requirements. The PsyD-AP does not include licensure preparation.
Traditional routes often require completing a full master's degree program, reapplying to a doctoral program, and sometimes retaking similar foundational courses. By blending advanced master's and doctoral-level coursework into a single, continuous track, you can benefit from a more efficient pathway to degree completion and avoid application wait times.
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